Symptoms and relief

Our purpose is not to hinder the physiological processes of the organism. Ours is a holistic approach. An approach that encourages the ristoring of the physical balance, by facing the causes as efficiently as possible and by ensuring a fast relief of all the symptoms.

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Skin

The skin is one of the largest organs of the human body: in fact, if stretched out completely it can reach 2 square metres and in terms of weight it makes up 16% of the total body weight. Its main function is to protect organs and internal tissues from aggressions of the “world outside” and therefore constitutes a physical barrier covering the entire body surface. It plays a fundamental role in protecting the body from heat and cold (thermoregulatory function), from injuries and from aggressions of external pathogenic agents. Last but not least, it is seat of nerve endings of the sense of touch.

The surface of the skin is not uniform: it has a very complex design that varies due to the presence of parallel patterns along its surface that determine, particularly on the fingertips, typical figurations (called “fingerprints”) that vary from individual to individual. The skin is formed by two layers: the epidermis and the dermis. In the human species, skin colour depends on many variables (thickness of the corneous layer, level of blood perfusion, presence and optical absorption of melanin, vitamin A dimer, hemoglobin). For this reason, colour varies not only according to the ethnical group but also with individuals and, even though in small nuances, it also changes in different body regions of the same individual.

The epidermis is the outer part of the skin, formed by several layers of cells, of which the most external ones are basically dead but resistant to external agents. The principal functions of this layer of skin are: to form a physical barrier against external agents; prevent dehydration of the body; prevent penetration of bacteria or other pathogenic agents; protect the body from sunburns by means of special cells called melanocytes, which produce a protein called melanin, responsible for skin coloration; rapidly repair the skin in case of injuries.

The dermis is the layer right under the epidermis. Its principal function is to support and nourish the skin. In fact, it contains blood vessels carrying nutrients to the skin itself, as well as the sebaceous and sweat glands, in charge of regulating the body temperature; nerve endings that receive impulses coming through the epidermis; hair roots.

The skin is a very delicate organ that can incur several problems, either injuries or irritations. The most frequent are pressure sores, ulcerations, burns, injuries, bruises, erythema, abrasions, cuts, etc. The skin undoubtedly performs essential functions for the health and well-being of the entire organism: it is therefore important to maintain its integrity and functionality adopting correct hygiene habits that include specific cleaners and, in case of pathologic events, using appropriate natural remedies.

Impetigo is an acute, very contageous skin infection affecting the superficial layers of the skin. The cause of this type of disorder is attributable to pyogenic bacteria (streptococci, such as S. pyogenes and stafilococci, such as S. aureus), normally present on the skin, which manage to multiply and infect areas where physiological defensive barriers are no longer functioning properly.

Transmission of the infectious agent takes place through direct contact with people with infected lesions, the areas most involved being the face, particularly around nose and mouth, and the limbs. Typical symptoms are the appearance of small erythemas and vescicules or blisters full of a transparent liquid that gradually gets cloudier. Whenthe vescicules break, releasing the liquid, the skin is left with small ulcers that not always heal. On the contrary, they cover with a yellow-brownish crust that can become purulent.

Treatment of impetigo with conventional medicine

First of all, conventional medicine resorts to local treatment in order to soothe symptoms of impetigo, disinfect the area invaded by pyogenic microorganisms through medicines for topical used, based on antibiotics; next, it aims to remove crusts via antiseptic treatment packs.

Secondly, it acts systemically by means of medicines based on antibiotics for oral administration. However, although this approach seems to provide immediate relief from impetigo, in the long run it is not effective at all, since the infection can easily re-emerge or even trigger secondary suprainfections. Moreover, use of antibiotics is not free from side-effects: in fact, these type of medicines frequently lead to sensitization, besides generating problems related to bacterial resistance.

This is why it is so important to have a valid alternative available to solve impetigo and, in this sense, Nature can once more offer valuable help, with elements of proven efficacy.

Nature can help you in case of impetigo

A natural and effective approach

To solve the problem of impetigo, a superficial infection of the skin cause by pathogenic bacteria, it is necessary to resort to a really valid approach in terms of efficacy, capable of providing a definitive solution, by combining specific plant active constituents with the extraordinary microbial properties of Grapefruit Seed Extract.

GSE and impetigo

Broad spectrum antimicrobial efficacy of Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) has been proven by Laboratories and Institutes worldwide: against hundreds of bacteria (both Gram+ and Gram-), among which pyogenic bacteria involved in impetigo and, for external use, at a concentration of 1,5% it has proven its strongest disinfectant power (higher than most kinds of commonly used antimicrobials). Additionally, it shows excellent antiviral properties.

Numerous testimonies confirm its validity and in terms of both efficacy and speed of action it remains unrivalled in nature. Moreover, as a “selective cleanser”, it does not have a negative impact on physiological flora of skin and mucosae, preserving their essential, defensive functionality. GSE therefore represents a very valuable aid also to solve the problem of impetigo.

Due to the above considerations, GSE therefore represents the cornerstone of an extraordinarily effective approach towards impetigo, whatever the specific type. Its association with specific plant extracts enables to devise a remedy through a mechanism of action that provides for the following features:

cleansing of parts affected by impetigo and of other delicate body areas;
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action,
beneficial for the physiological functioning of the skin affected by impetigo;
general (internal) systemic action, stimulating the organism’s natural defensive barriers.

This approach, combined with a healthy lifestyle (in terms of diet, but not only), includes the use of natural remedies that are well known in folk tradition and the efficacy of which in providing an opportunity to reach a solution has been confirmed by recent studies.

1 - For cleansing of parts affected by impetigo and of other delicate body areas…
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: with its bactericide property and antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic activity, it carries out not only a protective and preventive action on particularly delicate areas of the skin, against aggressive external agents, but it can also be considered as a valid support in the treatment of several skin pathologies.

Its extraordinary antifungal activity against 100 strains of yeasts and moulds must be emphasized, including Candida albicans, responsible for mucosal infections and systemic disorders (pneumopathies, kidney disorders, etc.) in immune compromised individuals. Studies carried out by Dr Leo Galland in New York on chronic Candidiasis (both intestinal and systemic) have reached interesting and significant results: success in 99% of treatments effected (only two failures out of 297 cases), without any cases of resistance nor side-effects.

Rice bran oil: obtained through pressing of fresh rice bran, it is characterized by the high level of tocopherols and tocotrienols, as well as for its high oxidative stability. Main substances contained are proteins, starches, amylopectins, essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, gamma oryzanol and inositol; it has refreshing, nourishing, emollient, antiseptic and astringent properties.

Icelandic lichen extract: lichens are twofold organisms. In fact, they represent a plant body consisting in the symbiotic association of a fungus and an algae. In Icelandic lichen, starches, mucilages and a series of acids called lichen acids have been isolated. The plant surely has specific, marked antimicrobial properties, principally due to the presence of a particular substance, namely a furan derivative called usnic acid. This ingredient has proven to exert an interesting antibiotic activity towards several groups of germs.

Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate: this is an extremely delicate cleansing agent (a surfactant), an irreplaceable element, ideal to cleanse delicate areas of the skin (face, nipples, etc.), particularly sensitive skin or affected by pathologies, i.e. cases requiring particular attention for the skin’s hydrolipidic film and physiology.

The ideal means to convey these elements is an extremely delicate cleanser, enabling targeted use on delicate areas such as the face, underarms and nipples. Daily use is recommended also as a preventive measure.

2 - Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, skin repairing, soothing, antipruriginous and analgesic action, beneficial for the physiological functioning of the skin affected by impetigo:
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract : as already highlighted, results obtained regarding its antimicrobial efficacy, coupled with its harmlessness, once again confirm that it is the ideal remedy to solve the problem of impetigo. Its synergy with specific plant extracts proves to be of great use, making the formulation even more effective and safe to use, even in cases where reddening is caused by irritative or allergic factors.

Echinacea: this plant has bacteriostatic and virustatic properties. In-depth studies have confirmed its anti-inflammatory, skin repairing properties, as well its inhibiting the hyaluronidase enzyme responsible for the polymerization of hyaluronic acid. Nowadays its anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing and reepithelising activity in case of aftermaths of dermatological infections has been amply recognized.

Nymphaea: an aquatic plant that is particularly indicated for its anti-oedematose action also on delicate skins.

Peppermint Essential Oil: a precious element, appreciated for its disinfectant action against certain viruses and for its refreshing, analgesic properties.

Lithospermum erythrorhizon: this small, herbaceous shrub belongs to the Boraginaceae family and grows wildly in Asia and Australia. The phytocomplex is rich in naphthoquinones, the most active of which is Shikonine. In Chinese medicine, the plant is known as a remedy for topical use, indicated for skin problems. Clinical studies confirm such use, proving that the phytocomplex exerts an anti-inflammatory, antipruriginous and rehydrating activity.

Biosterine®: phytocompound consisting in the association of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Sage (Salvia Officinalis) titrated at 40% in Rosmarinic Acid, with anti-inflammatory properties, as it inhibits proinflammatory mediators and the inflammatory cascade.

Carboxymethyl beta-glucan: deriving from fermentation, carried out by yeasts, of glucan polysaccharides extracted from cereals, it has regenerating, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. For topical use, it protects from oxidative stress and stimulates proliferation of fibroblasts, crucial for tissue regeneration. Morever, it possesses non-specific immunostimulant properties, important for cicatrizing processes.

These natural plant ingredients are artfully combined in a dermatological gel.

Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: results obtained from researches conducted to date indicate that this extract acts against around 800 strains of bacteria and viruses, around 100 strains of funghi and many single-cell parasites. No other known antimicrobial is capable of similar results. Dr J.A. Botine of the University of Sao Paulo in Brasil has managed to prove, through testing, GSE’s total efficacy as a disinfectant (100%) compared to traditional substances (98%) and alcohol (72%).

All this explains why Grapefruit Seed Extract in powder is recommended by dermatologists worldwide for the treatment of: lesions of different nature (wounds, sores, scaldings, etc.), dermatitis, dermatosis, erythemas, diaper rashes (newborn babies, female genitals, etc.), mycosis of the skin and athlete’s foot. GSE is the real first aid for the skin.

Melaleuca Oil (Tea Tree Oil): its essential oil is a powerful antiseptic, natural antiviral and antifungal, therefore useful in curing severe and extended mycosis.

Rice starch and oatmeal, enriched with olive dry extract: powder as a supporting vehicle.

The ideal vehicle to convey these elements is a dermatological powder, enabling easy, extended use while ensuring rapid absorption of the plant active ingredients. Recommended application: spread two or three times a day on the affected area.

General (internal) systemic action, stimulating the organism’s natural defensive barriers.
Nature can help you with…

Grapefruit Seed Extract: the importance of strengthening our natural defense system has already been underlined. The complex of beneficial bacteria present in our gastrointestinal tract represents the first line of the organism’s defense towards external aggressions.

There are several factors causing a diminution of beneficial colonies (unhealthy diet, intoxication, allergies, stress, etc.); if, as is often the case, this adds up to a therapy based on antibiotics, beneficial bacteria are destroyed, giving way to pathogenic microorganisms. Once the first line of defence has been overcome, the enemy bacteria finds an immune system that, if under massive attack owing to the lack of a “filter”, gives way to the onset of the disease. With its selective bactericide action, GSE can be useful as a preventive measure, since it acts as a “garbage collector” in the intestinal tract. In fact, elimination of pathogenic microorganisms encourages the development of physiological bacterial flora, thus improving the body’s natural defenses.

Echinacea: it slows down the spread of pathogenic germs, triggering a defensive mechanism against such germs, while simultaneously activating a regenerative activity of the tissues. For this reason, Echinacea preparations are considered effective in the treatment of septic conditions and in infectious pathologies.

Rhodiola rosea: it has the ability to increase resistance of the organism to toxins; it increases the level of enzymes, of RNA and of proteins and is therefore capable of reducing recovery times resulting from fatigue or prolonged illnesses.

Uncaria: besides stimulating the immune system, it is capable of repairing both single and double stranded DNA, stimulating the proliferation of lymphocytes and increasing the number of white blood cells.

Tea tree oil (melaleuca alternifolia): with amply demonstrated antiviral properties, it is also effective against bacteria and fungi, as well as being a powerful stimulant of the immune system.

The ideal form for intake of such ingredients is represented by a food supplement in swallowable tablets. For children, the drinkable version is recommended, containing the same ingredients as the tablets.

The association of the above-described ingredients, essential to ensure a definitive approach to solve the problem of impetigo, can be further supported by specific remedies indicated in order to carry out the following actions:

Rebalancing the intestinal flora while strengthening the organism’s natural defences: for adults, single use vials with patented measuring cap, based on probiotics (B. bifidum, L. acidophilus, L. bulgaricus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Uncaria and Morinda citrifolia (Noni); for children, single use vials with patented measuging cap, containing probiotics (B. infantis, B. longum, L. Rhamnosus), fructo-oligosaccharides, GSE, Astragalus and Uncaria.